WASHINGTON — Dads in need of a fashion reboot can heed advice from D.C.-based stylist Tara Luizzi, of TaraStylesDC.com, who finds the biggest style challenge for the buttoned-up, conservative Washington crowd is shifting from the office to the weekend.
She says a lot of local dads dress professionally and look put together during the week, but when it comes to weekends and vacation they turn to ratty T-shirts, shorts and jeans.
“Don’t go to the bottom of the pile” when dressing for the weekends, Luizzi says.
But that’s not to say dads shouldn’t feel comfy during downtime. Investing in a few pieces that look polished and feel comfortable will take dads from the sidelines of the soccer fields to a corner booth at date night.
“When you look good, you feel good, so step it up on the weekends to go to that cocktail party or barbecue,” Luizzi says.
Busy is not an excuse
D.C. thrives on the “I’m too busy” excuse, Luizzi says. But with the right basics and key pieces in your closet, it just takes five minutes to pull a look together. A good pair of khakis, or casual pants, and a pair of jeans that fit well and are not ripped are as critical to a man’s closet as good tailored suit.
Papa’s got a brand new bag
When it comes to accessories, Luizzi says to hang up the backpack and get rid of the stodgy briefcase — it’s time for a replacement. Try a messenger bag, she says, and don’t worry about it looking like a “man purse.”
What’s on your feet?
Rethink the running shoes and go for a driving loafer, boating shoe or slip-on sneaker.
“The preppy/sporty look always looks good on the weekends and is all over the place this season,” Luizzi says.
Modern pants
When it comes to jeans and shorts, dads should consider some of the newer trends. Luizzi says she has had luck with some of her clients in white or cream-colored jeans. Pair them with lightweight shirts and a sport coat for a comfortable and sleek going-out look.
If white is a no-go, Luizzi says, consider a lighter blue or grey denim and find the right shirt — one that looks good both tucked in and out. Shorts are now longer, tapered at the knee and in bold colors such as Nantucket Red and Indigo Blue, Luizzi says. Pants have skinnier lines and straight-leg styles — which can work on bigger, broader-sized guys. Polish off the look by adding a spring/summer sport coat or blazer.
“The beauty of the blazer is, it hides all sins
